Objectives: Under the name of Non Melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC) we describe all the non-melanoma malignant neoplasms affecting the skin. However, especially epidemiologically, the term NMSC practically refers to keratinocyte carcinomas, namely basal (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), since they account for the 99% of the tumors in this group. Malignant disease of the skin include also: Merkel Cell Carcinoma, Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma, Kaposi sarcoma, Extra-mammary Paget disease, apocrine carcinoma and metastatic malignancies from various primary sites.
Introduction: NMSC is the most commonly occurring cancer. They account for less than 0,1% of patients deaths caused by cancer. The incidence of NMSC is 18–20 times higher than that of melanoma. However, compared to melanoma, the epidemiology of NMSC is understudied. There are significant limitations in the investigation of NMSC incidence, mainly attributed to its marked geographic variability, as well as to the fact that large cancer registries usually exclude NMSC from their records, or the records are incomplete.
Materials / method: The most well recognized exogenous factor implicated in the pathogenesis of NMSC is the ultraviolet radiation (UVR). In Western societies, tan-seeking behavior, including sunbathing and indoor tanning, outdoor activities without adequate sun protection, clothing style and ozone depletion are among the parameters contributing to the increased UVR-exposure.
Results: We describe the two main types of NMSC: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. We will also look at new treatments available for these diseases. In a third part, we will discuss Merkel's carcinoma, due to its high mortality and the latest therapeutic revolutions with the advent of immunotherapy in this indication.
Conclusion: Apart from environmental changes, another crucial reason for a further future increase of the NMSC incidence is the prolonged life expectancy. By 2050, it is expected that 32% of the world population will be above the age of 60. Given the predilection of keratinocyte cancers for the elderly, it is reasonable that NMSC will follow this age increase.
Declaraciones
¿Ha recibido algún tipo de financiamiento para realizar su investigación sobre esta temática?
No
¿Ha recibido algún pago, honorario u otra compensación por su trabajo acerca de esta investigación?
No
¿Tiene vínculos financieros con alguna entidad que podría llegar a competir estrechamente con los medicamentos, materiales o instrumentos tratados en su investigación?
No
¿Posee o ha solicitado una patente relacionada a los materiales, productos o instrumentos utilizados en su investigación?
No
Este trabajo no cuenta con el apoyo de ningún financiamiento directo o indirecto. El autor asume plena responsabilidad sobre el mismo.